Chris Anderson: His Journey From Law Enforcement To Building Lion Punch Forge, Believing in His Vision, & the Metalsmith Collective

Chris Anderson took a very different path into working with metal, yet the fit was undeniably perfect. I'm not going to give all the details away, but after retiring from law enforcement, Chris decided to put all of his energy into his business, Lion Punch Forge. I was so thrilled when Chris agreed to take some time out of his very busy schedule to have a conversation with me. He shared is journey from blacksmithing to silver and goldsmithing, and then ultimately to where he has now landed inventing and fabricating innovative tools for metalsmiths. Chris talks about his belief in the need for mental toughness in building a successful business because the entrepreneurial journey has many ups and downs. Later we talk about the creation of the Metalsmith Collective, a cooperative market for tool makers, educators in the jewelry industry, and fabricators of materials such as castings and gemstones. About Chris... Chris is an enthusiastic maker turned inventor who has honed his skills through self-teaching and the invaluable guidance of inspiring mentors he encountered along his journey. Raised in the scenic Pacific Northwest, he developed a profound affinity for the outdoors, which serves as a wellspring of inspiration for his creative endeavors.  In 2016, Chris founded Lion Punch Forge as a hobby, after he, his brother (Bruce), and father (Mike) purchased a coal-fired blacksmith shop. Having retired from a 20+ year career in public safety in 2020, Chris now devotes himself to running Lion Punch Forge full-time as a self-employed entrepreneur. With a background as an instructor in public safety realm Chris has transitioned that role into his new position as a teacher and mentor within the metal arts and creative communities. To learn more about Chris, Lion Punch Forge, and the Metalsmith Collective follow him at the links below. Instagram: @lionpunchforge Website: lionpunchforge.com Metalsmith Collective If this podcast means something to you and you would like to support it, please take a a moment to give it a few kinds word with a written review on your favorite podcast listening platform. This helps me share the podcast with others. You can also share a favorite episode or consider joining our Slowmade Podcast Patreon community. You support literally makes this podcast possible. Thank you so much! You can follow along or reach out to Christine on Instagram: @christinemighion or send her an email at: [email protected]